A NEW-look Co-operative food store which has created 13 additional jobs opens in Pickering on Friday.

The store in Market Place, which represents an £800,000 investment by the Co-op, has been completely re-designed in order to reflect the needs of modern shoppers.

There will be a focus on fresh produce, meal ideas and food to go and the store will incorporate an in-store bakery. The store will also offer a new beer, wines and spirits area with a particular emphasis on local ales and an extended wine range.

New checkouts, including self- serve, are being introduced to improve customer service while new ceiling and lighting will make the store brighter and fresh signage will make it easier for shoppers to navigate their way around. The store facilities have also been completely refreshed as have the back office areas.

A new home delivery service is being introduced and the store is pioneering a new role, known as a Community Pioneer, where a member of the food team will work to foster involvement in community activities, from local fundraising initiatives to helping to understand and develop solutions to meet community needs.

Julie Robinson Manager of the new-look Co-op, said: “We are thrilled to have made such a significant investment in Pickering and delighted that we have a fantastic new food store with which to serve the community – it is an exciting time for the whole team.

“The Co-operative is a community retailer, and we are committed to playing an active role in local life, embracing the area’s community spirit.

“With the combination of our new-look store and the Co-op’s commitment to lowering prices on hundreds of everyday essentials, I am confident we will provide the community with everything needed to pick-up delicious food conveniently and create inspirational and tasty meals at home.”

Shoppers visiting the store on Friday, 27 on Saturday, November 28, will be entered into a free prize draw for two ticket holders to be invited to take part in a Shopping List Challenge on Monday, November 30, for the chance to win a 42” TV.

The two challengers will compete against each other to see who can pick-up items on a predetermined shopping list against the clock with the faster winning the prize.